Wildlife: Invertebrates, Reptiles, Amphibians

To some, species such as nudibranchs, sweat bees, tarantulas, and red-legged frogs are lumped into the great wide world of creepy-crawlies. But these underfoot and underwater animals can be surprisingly interesting, albeit sometimes obscure. The sense of wonder and curiosity that these species spark is a reminder of wildlife’s inherent value, no matter the size or number of legs.

Antioch Dunes National Wildlife Refuge has been shaped by industry and development leaving its three endemic and endangered species clinging to their habitat. But in a recent partnership between the Port of Stockton and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, dredged sand from the San Joaquin River will be offloaded at the refuge to aid with large-scale dune restoration.

Some of the area’s most amazing spiders are the ones you’re most likely to miss. With colorful appendages and a big pair of striking frontal eyes, the diminutive Habronattus genus of jumping spider might be one of the cutest, and most surprising, of Western arachnids.

Did you know the Pacific leatherback turtle is California's official marine reptile? Nesting in Indonesia then migrating to Californian waters to feast on jellyfish, this elusive species is a truly global traveler. But with threats both in the Pacific and on their nesting beaches, the leatherback turtle may not be around for that much longer.

Bay Nature Community

Raptor expert Larry Broderick of Sonoma-based West County Hawk Watch has been enamored of birds of prey since childhood. We swooped in to chat with Larry about his favorite predators on the eve of this weekend's SF Bay Flyway Festival.